Chain bracket with strengthened chain supports

ABSTRACT

An improved chain bracket, and especially a trolley bracket, for use with overhead conveyor chains and a method for making same which provides an economical bracket having increased chain support strength. The bracket is stamped from sheet metal and includes a chain pad extending transversely across the bracket for engaging and supporting one link of a conveyor chain when mounted on the bracket. A reinforcing portion formed in one piece with and bent from the bracket sheet metal resists and substantially prevents bending of the chain pad under load. The method includes stamping the peripheral outline of the bracket from sheet metal, and bending the chain pad and reinforcing portion integrally and in one piece from the bracket sheet metal.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to chain brackets, and especially to trolleybrackets for supporting conveyor chain links in overhead conveyorsystems. More particularly, the invention is an improved bracket ortrolley bracket which is more economical to manufacture because it isstamped from sheet metal and has increased chain support strength, aswell as to a method for making such brackets.

Trolley and other chain brackets used in overhead conveyor systems aretypically subjected to many stresses and strains. In the typicalmanufacturing plant utilizing an overhead conveyor, the conveyorincludes numerous horizontal corners as well as changes in verticalheight along its length. Each trolley bracket, which is typicallysupported by a wheel assembly on an overhead I-beam-type or other typeconveyor rail or the like, is joined to a conveyor chain which extendsalong the conveyor rail by means of one of the chain links. A typicalmethod is to insert a pair of trolley brackets through the open centerof the link in back-to-back fashion and thereafter move the bracketsoutwardly with a spacer and secure them with bolts or the like to holdthe link in place on the brackets. Other chain brackets, such as thosetypically fitted between trolley brackets, are also secured to the chainin a similar fashion.

When each combination of brackets and a chain link encounters turns inthe conveyor and especially vertical changes in height, the chainchanges direction urging the bracket connected links through that samechange in direction. This tends to cause the rigidly mounted links to"rock" on the brackets resulting in wear to or deformation of the chainand brackets.

One prior known type of trolley bracket was forged from steel or anothermetal. The forging method is tremendously more expensive because it islabor intensive and requires numerous forging dies. Such dies tend towear out quickly because of extensive configurations and projections inthe trolley bracket to be formed. A forged bracket also includes metalwhich has to be softened by heating to allow forging, is heavier than astamped sheet metal bracket, is more expensive to heat treat forhardness after forging, and requires secondary machining before use.

Other prior trolley brackets were stamped from sheet metal. Some ofthese brackets included chain support surfaces which were bent out ofthe sheet metal itself. Such chain supports often bent and were deformedwhen stressed during use on a conveyor and subjected to the above"rocking" link motion. In addition, some of the prior stamped trolleybrackets supported the chain only with sheared edges of the stampedmetal itself which increased wear on the chain.

Accordingly, a need was evident for an economical chain bracket, andespecially a trolley bracket for overhead conveyor systems which wouldbe stronger and more durable in use, could be more easily andeconomically heat treated for hardness after formation, and which wouldinclude stronger chain supports which would remain in their properposition and resist wear even under stress and load during use.

This invention provides a solution to the above need and problems.Alternative but distinct solutions to the same problems and need aredisclosed in copending, commonly assigned, U.S. patent applications Ser.No. 872,245, invented by Charles C. Frost, Gerald W. Gurney andFrederick Sytsma and Ser. No. 872,265, invented by Gerald W. Gurney andSiegfried K. Weis, both of which were filed on even date herewith.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved chain bracket,and especially a trolley bracket for overhead conveyors as well as amethod for making such brackets from sheet metal to provide a moreeconomical, strengthened bracket. The present invention uses at leastone chain support or pad as well as a reinforcement for such pad whichis bent from the sheet metal of the bracket itself and resists andsubstantially prevents the pad from bending out of its preferredposition during stress and load in use. Principle support for orengagement with the chain in the present invention is provided bysmooth, uncut surfaces of the sheet metal so that primary support by cutedges of the metal which could cause greater wear on the chain isavoided.

In addition, the method provides an economical process for stamping andbending brackets including chain pads and reinforcing portions for thosepads from sheet metal. Such sheet metal can be heat treated afterformation for increased hardness, rigidity and wear resistance.

In one form, the present invention provides an improved trolley bracketof the type having a first end portion with means for supporting atrolley wheel thereon, a second end portion having a chain support forsupporting the link of a conveyor chain for moving the bracket along thesupport when the trolley wheel is attached, and a connecting portionconnecting the first and second end portions. The second end portionalso includes an aperture for securing the bracket to a bracketattachment or another of the brackets for mounting a chain link thereon.The bracket is stamped in one piece from sheet metal. The chain supportincludes at least one chain pad extending transverse to the direction ofelongation of the bracket for supporting a chain link when mountedthereon. The chain pad is bent from the bracket sheet metal and has athickness less than its length measured transverse to the elongation ofthe bracket. Reinforcing means are formed in one piece with and bentfrom the bracket sheet metal and support at least a major portion of thelength of the chain pad for resisting and preventing bending of thechain pad when under load.

In other forms, the invention may be a bracket for attachment to a chainincluding a chain pad and reinforcing means as set forth herein. Thebrackets may also include a plurality of such chain pads and the pad orpads may be bent from the marginal edge flanges extending along theperiphery of the bracket, lanced or formed from center portions of thebracket, and be separate from or continuous with the reinforcingportions. In each case, a reinforcing portion backs up and supports eachchain pad to resist and substantially prevent its movement from itspredetermined, preferred position when under load.

In another aspect of the invention, a method for forming a stamped chainbracket or trolley bracket for use with overhead conveyors is provided.The trolley bracket method includes the steps of stamping a trolleybracket from a sheet of metal including forming one end of the bracketfor supporting a trolley wheel, forming a second end portion forsupporting a chain link of a conveyor chain, and forming an intermediateportion connecting the two end portions. The forming of the second endportion includes bending integrally and in one piece from a portion ofthe sheet metal of the bracket at least one of the chain pad andreinforcing means for the chain pad, and bending the other of the chainpad and reinforcing means such that the reinforcing means will supportthe chain pad in use and resist and substantially prevent bending fromits position when loaded.

These and other objects, advantages, purposes and features of theinvention will become more apparent from a study of the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary, front elevation of a pair of the trolleybrackets of the present invention secured in a link of a typicalconveyor chain;

FIG. 2 is a sectional, side elevation of the assembly taken along lineII--II of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the strengthened, stampedtrolley bracket shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is an end elevation of one of the trolley brackets shown in FIGS.1-3;

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a second embodiment of thestamped, strengthened trolley bracket of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a sectional, fragmentary, side elevation of the trolleybracket taken along line VI--VI of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a third embodiment of astamped, strengthened trolley bracket of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary, sectional, side elevation of the bracket takenalong line VIII--VIII of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a fragmentary, perspective view of another embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10 is a sectional, side elevation of the bracket taken along lineX--X of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary, perspective view of yet another embodiment ofthe present invention including a bracket and a bracket attachment whichforms a portion of the chain support means;

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, rear elevation of the assembly shown in FIG.11;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the trolleybracket of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a fragmentary, front elevation of the bracket shown in FIG.13 assembled with a trolley bracket spacer attachment and a typicalchain link.

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary, sectional side elevation of the assembly takenalong line XV--XV of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary, perspective view of yet another embodiment ofthe trolley bracket of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a fragmentary, sectional, side elevation of the bracket takenalong plane XVII--XVII of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary, sectional, side elevation of a pair of anotherembodiment of the improved trolley brackets of the present inventionshown assembled with an intermediate bracket spacer attachment and aconveyor chain link;

FIG. 19 is a fragmentary, perspective view of one of the trolleybrackets shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a slightly modifiedversion of the trolley bracket shown in FIGS. 18 and 19;

FIG. 21 is a fragmentary, sectional, side elevation of the bracket takenalong line XXI--XXI of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a layout of the pattern from which the stamped trolleybracket shown in FIGS. 1-4 is stamped and formed; and

FIG. 23 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an intermediate stepduring the stamping and bending method for forming the trolley bracketshown in FIGS. 1-4 and 22 from sheet metal.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings in greater detail, FIGS. 1 and 2illustrate an overhead conveyor assembly including one embodiment of theimproved, strengthened, reinforced trolley bracket 10 of the presentinvention. The overhead conveyor system includes an I-Beam-type overheadsupport rail 12. Beam 12 includes upper and lower, laterally extendingflanges 13, 14 connected by a central wall or vertical flange 15. Lowerflange 14 supports one trolley wheel assembly 16 on either side ofcentral wall 15, each wheel assembly 16 including a laterally outwardlyextending axle 17 bolted to the upper end of one of the improved trolleybrackets 10 of the present invention. Brackets 10 extend downwardly andcurve inwardly around flange 14 to a position adjacent one another forreceipt of a link from the conveyor chain which moves the brackets andwheel assemblies along the rail 12.

Each pair of brackets 10 is received through the center opening of thecentral chain link 18 which has parallel side portions 19. Side portions19 are supported and prevented from moving vertically or in a "rocking"motion by a plurality of chain pads formed in the lower end of thebrackets as will be more fully described hereinafter. The bracket lowerends are individually inserted through the central opening in the chainlink 18 and moved outwardly to engage side portions 19 after which acentral spacer member 20 is inserted between the brackets and securingbolts 21 are passed through to secure the entire assembly in place. Theaperture through link 18 which receives brackets 10 is only slightlylonger than the width of the brackets thereby preventing longitudinalmovement of the brackets in the link. As is best seen in FIG. 2, thespacer or bracket attachment 20 extends downwardly beyond the lower endsof brackets 10 and may include an aperture or other structure forsuspending a shackle, support or the like to suspend an object on theconveyor.

Details of bracket 10 are shown in FIGS. 1-4. Bracket 10 is acontinuous, elongated body stamped in one piece from sheet steel orother metal typically having a thickness of approximately 0.125 inches.The designed thickness can be increased or decreased depending on theload required to be supported by the brackets. Each bracket includes afirst or upper end 24 having an aperture centered therein or receivingthe axle 17 of one of the wheel assemblies 16 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.The upper end angles slightly outwardly at 27 around the lower flange 14of rail 12 and merges with a connecting portion 28 extending downwardlyand inwardly from the lower end of the upper portion. The connectingportion 28 merges with a continuous, downwardly extending lower orsecond end 30 which is generally planar between the side edges andextends generally parallel to the portion of upper end 24 which includesaperture 26.

Each bracket 10 also includes an upstanding, marginal edge flange 31extending continuously along the peripheral edges of the bracket exceptfor relieved areas aligned with one another transversely across thebracket lower end 30 to provide a space for receiving one side portion19 of a center chain link 18. Space S is slightly wider than the widthof one side portion 19. Flanges 31 provide strength and rigidity for theformed bracket and are stamped, bent and formed in one piece with theremainder of the bracket.

Support for center chain link 18 of the conveyor chain is provided byfour spaced but aligned chain pads or supports 32a, 32b, 32c and 32dwhich are formed in one piece and bent from the planar center area oflower bracket end 30. Each chain pad 32 extends upwardly, generallyperpendicular to the planar center area of lower end 30 and has agenerally planar chain link engaging surface facing the space S wherethe link is received. The chain link engaging surface is formed from theplanar, smooth surface of the sheet metal to avoid, as much as possible,contact of the link portions with cut metal portions of the bracket toreduce wear and abrasion.

Extending inwardly and behind each of the chain pads from the adjacentmarginal edge flanges 31 are curved, generally triangular, reinforcingmembers or portions 34a, 34b, 34c and 34d, best seen in FIG. 3.Reinforcing members 34 are formed in one piece and bent laterallyinwardly from the bracket sheet metal such that they are parallel to theplanar bracket portion 30 but are spaced above that bracket portionadjacent the free ends of the chain pads 32. The end edges 31a, 31b, 31cand 31d of flanges 31, which help define the link space S, are flushwith the chain-engaging surfaces of the chain pads 32 to provideadditional support for the chain links. Even though surfaces 31a-31d arecut surfaces of the sheet metal, their flush extension with the pads 32prevents them from unduly wearing the chain. Each reinforcing member orportion 34 also includes a notch or recess 35 having a width equal tothe thickness of the chain pad. The edge of recess 35 in eachreinforcing member 34 has a thickness equal to that of the sheet metaland abuts the rear surface of the chain pad opposite to thechain-engaging surface along a major portion of the length of the pad.Such support for a major portion of the length of each pad, coupled withprovision of the support at the free end of each pad, provides a secure,strong, reinforced arrangement which resists and substantially preventsthe pads from bending even when the chain links tend to "rock" or moveat the various points along the conveyor. The chain pad surfaces extendtransversely across the bracket generally perpendicular to the directionof elongation of the bracket and are aligned with opposing and adjacentpads to provide secure support for the sides 19 of the center linkportion 18.

Lower bracket portions 30 are also provided with apertures 36, 38aligned along the longitudinal center line of the bracket for receivingbolts 21 or other fasteners which are designed to extend through aspacer 20 and the opposing bracket 10 to secure the various portionstogether (FIG. 2). The lowermost reinforcing members 34c, 34d taperdownwardly toward the end edge of the lower end portion to reduce thebulkiness of that end portion as shown in FIGS. 2-4. The open areas fromwhich the chain pads 32 are bent in the planar portion of lower end 30of bracket 10 do not weaken the bracket because the stress and load forsupport of objects on the conveyor is taken principally by the spacer 20and bolt 21 extending through apertures 36 at the upper part of lowerend 30 with some additional support provided by the bolt throughapertures 38. The lower portion of lower end 30 provides a securing areafor the chain and is not intended to provide the principle support forobjects on the conveyor.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, a second embodiment 40 of the improvedtrolley bracket is shown wherein like portions and parts to those shownin FIGS. 1-4 are illustrated with like numerals. Embodiment 40 issubstantially the same as bracket 10 except for a modified arrangementof its chain pads and reinforcing portions. In bracket 40, the chainpads are flanges 42a-42d integral and continuous with the ends of therounded, generally triangular, reinforcing portions 44a-44d. Each chainpad is bent generally at a right angle to the plane of the reinforcingportion which is, in turn, bent inwardly and toward the center of thebracket from a marginal edge flange 31. Each chain pad flange 42 has alength sufficient to cover the end edge of the marginal edge flanges 31at the center link receiving space S so that a chain link engagingsurface formed completely of side surfaces of the sheet metal andwithout any cut metal edges is formed. The lower edge of the chain padis rectilinear and is in abutment with the planar bracket portion 30.Reinforcing portions 44a -44d extend across the entire length of thechain pads which in turn are transverse to the direction of elongationof the bracket. Once again, the reinforcing portions are spaced abovethe planar bracket area and are generally parallel thereto. Any spacebetween the rear surface of the chain pad portions and the end edges ofthe marginal flanges such as that shown at 45 (FIGS. 5 and 6) ispreferably kept to a minimum so that the chain pad flanges will drawsupport from the end surfaces of the marginal edge flanges 31 forfurther resistance to bending when under load.

Another embodiment 50 of the bracket is shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 whereinlike parts to those embodiments previously described bear like numerals.Embodiment 50 includes a slightly modified chain pad and reinforcingportion arrangement. The chain pads in embodiment 50 are formed byintegral, extending flanges 52a-52d formed in one piece with and bentfrom the ends of reinforcing portions 54a-54d which are bent inwardlytoward the center of the bracket from the marginal edge flanges. Chainpads 52a-52d have chain link engaging surfaces flush with end edges31a-31d respectively of the marginal edge flanges which define thelink-receiving space S. Pads 52 each extend continuously into anadditional buttressing flange 56a-56d. Flanges 56 are in abutment andengagement with the planar area of the lower bracket portion 30 andextend parallel to the reinforcing portions 54, both of which aregenerally perpendicular to the chain pad surfaces which extendtransversely across the bracket. Reinforcing portions 54 support theportions of the chain pads spaced farthest from the bracket while theadditional flanges 56 provide support for the portions of the padsclosest to the bracket. The reinforcing portions 54, chain pads 52 andadditional flanges 56 are bent over from the marginal edge flanges 31though they are immediately adjacent thereto on the inside and any spacetherebetween is kept to a minimum. The side surfaces of the flanges 56which abut the inside surfaces of marginal edge flanges 31 also serve tohelp resist bending or skewing of the inner portions of the chain padsaway from space S.

Yet another modified embodiment 60 of the improved trolley bracket shownin FIGS. 1-8 is illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10. Once again like portionsand parts to those described in the other embodiment bear like numerals.In embodiment 60, chain pads 62a-62d are formed in one piece with andbent from the marginal edge flanges along either side edge of thebracket. Pads 62a, 62d and 62b, 62c, respectively, are bent away fromone another and laterally, inwardly toward the center of the bracketsuch that they extend perpendicular to bracket portion 30 and are alsogenerally perpendicular to the upstanding flanges 31. Reinforcingportions or members 64a-64d are bent inwardly from the top edges ofmarginal edge flanges 31 and abut and engage the separately formed chainpads 62 at a position spaced above or outwardly from the planar bracketportion 30. As in embodiment 10, reinforcing members 64 include cutmetal edges having a thickness equal to that of the sheet metal whichabut and support the chain pads. Reinforcing members 64 extend along theentire length of chain pads 62 and, as shown in FIG. 9, in some casesextends slightly beyond the inner end surfaces of the chain pads forsecure support. Pads 62 and reinforcing members 64 are thus formed fromseparate portions of the marginal edge flanges while the chain linksupporting surfaces of pads 62 are aligned and parallel and define thelink-receiving space S as in the other embodiments.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, yet another embodiment 70 of the improvedtrolley bracket is illustrated wherein the link-receiving space S isformed by portions of the trolley bracket 70 as well as portions of abracket attachment or spacer 80. Support for the upper edge of sideportion 19 of the chain link 18 is provided by a pair of aligned chainpads 72a and 72b reinforced and supported by bent, folded reinforcingmembers 74a, 74b, respectively, extending from the marginal edge flanges31 in a manner identical to that for bracket embodiment 10. Again, theend surfaces 31a, 31b of modular edge flanges 31 are flush with thechain link-engaging surfaces of pads 72a, 72b. The lower portion of thechain link-receiving space is provided by upstanding chain pads 82a, 82bfolded and bent in one piece from the spacer or bracket attachment 80, apair of which is fitted between a pair of the brackets 70 when they aresecured in the chain of an overhead conveyor system. Pads 82a, 82b aregenerally perpendicular to the planar bracket area 30 as well as to thegenerally planar, sheet metal spacer or bracket attachment. A downwardlyextending portion 73 of bracket 70 extends between pads 82a, 82b andincludes securing aperture 38. As shown in FIG. 12, the bracketattachment or spacer 80 includes apertures 84, 86 which are aligned withapertures 36, 38, respectively, for receiving securing boltstherethrough in the manner shown in FIG. 2. Accordingly, support for thechain link can be provided by chain pads formed integrally on thetrolley bracket in combination with chain pads formed on a spacer orbracket attachment.

FIGS. 13-17 illustrate two further "horizontal hole" embodiments 90 and100 wherein support for the chain link below the trolley bracket isprovided by a spacer or bracket attachment secured to the trolleybracket in a manner similar to but slightly modified from that as shownin FIGS. 11 and 12. In embodiment 90 shown in FIGS. 13-15, wherein likeparts to those embodiments previously described bear like numerals, ashorter lower bracket portion 91 is included. A pair of horizontallyaligned, securing apertures 92 are formed through bracket portion 91immediately above the reinforced chain pad 93. Pad 93 extendssubstantially the full width of the bracket between marginal edgeflanges 31 across and transverse to the elongated direction of thebracket and is generally perpendicular to the planar bracket portion 91.Apertures 92 receive side by side securing bolts as shown in FIGS. 14and 15.

Support and reinforcement for pad 93 is provided by a C-shapedreinforcing member 94 bent out of the sheet metal forming bracketportion 91 as is seen in FIGS. 13-15. One leg of the C-shapedreinforcing member 94 extends out of the metal of the bracket 91 in onedirection and curves around such that the other leg extends in theopposite direction and has an end edge comprising a thickness of thesheet metal abutting the rear surface of the chain pad opposite to thechain link-engaging surface. Reinforcing flange 94 is slightly shorterthan the length of the chain pad 93 but supports a major portion of thatpad to resist and prevent bending under load. Support for the lower edgeof chain link side portion 19 is provided by shoulders 96 on spacers orbracket attachments 95 inserted between a pair of the brackets 90 whenassembled in an overhead conveyor as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. Thelink-engaging surface of chain pad 93 is the lowermost surface ofbracket 90 as will be seen in FIG. 15.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, embodiment 100 of the improved, stampedtrolley bracket is similar to bracket 90 but includes a slightlydiffering reinforcement member for the transversely extending chain pad.In embodiment 100, where like parts and portions bear like numerals tothose portions previously described, reinforcing member 102 is lanced,bent and offset from the planar bracket portion 101 such that a cut endedge having a thickness equal to that of the sheet metal abuts the chainpad 104 at a position spaced outwardly from the planar bracket portion101. This version provides strong reinforcement for pad 104 and requiresless bending. Embodiment 100 is also intended for use with spacer orbracket attachments including shoulders for support of the lower edgesof side portions 19 of center chain links such as those shown at 95 inFIGS. 13-15.

In FIGS. 18 through 21, two additional embodiments 110 and 130 of theimproved trolley bracket are shown. Brackets 110 each include generallyplanar, lower bracket portions or ends 112 extending between marginaledge flanges 114 and downwardly below those flanges. Support for theconveyor chain link is provided by stamped ribs 116, 118 extendingtransversely across the entire width of the lower bracket portion 112below the side flanges 114. Ribs 116, 118 include elongated chain linkengaging legs 120, 122, respectively, which extend outwardly generallyperpendicular to the lower bracket portion 112 and merge with thatbracket portion. Extending away from the link-engaging legs 120, 122which define link-receiving space S are supports or reinforcing legs124, 126. Reinforcing legs 124, 126 extend across the bracket andsupport the entire length of the link-engaging legs. Legs 124, 126 havea generally L-shaped cross section. One end of each merges continuouslywith the edge of legs 120, 122, respectively, which is spaced from thelower bracket portion 112 and the other end merges into the lowerbracket portion at the other end. The outermost surfaces of legs 124,126 are generally parallel to the lower bracket portion 112. Securingapertures 127, 128 are provided along the centerline of the bracket. Asemi-circular recess 129 is provided adjacent the lowermost aperture 128to allow room for tightening a nut or bolt head because the aperture isspaced close to rib 118 as is best seen in FIGS. 18 and 19. Ribs 116,118 provide rigid, continuous support preventing "rocking" of the chainlink and yet are easily formed in a single stamping operation by anappropriately shaped stamping die.

As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, a slightly modified version 130 of thebracket 110 is illustrated wherein like numbers illustrate like portionsto those in embodiment 110. The primary difference with embodiment 130is the shape of the support or reinforcing legs 124', 126' for chainlink-engaging and supporting ribs 116', 118'. Reinforcing legs 124',126' merge with the same outwardly spaced legs of transversely extendingchain link-engaging legs 120', 122' as in embodiment 110 but angle in aninclined manner toward bracket portion 112 and merge continuouslytherewith. Accordingly, the overall shape of each rib 116', 118' isgenerally V-shaped while ribs 116, 118 in embodiment 110 are generallyU-shaped. Ribs 116', 118', however, provide similar strong, secure,reinforced support for the chain link-engaging legs as do legs 124, 126to resist and substantially prevent bending and deformation of the chainsupports during use. Embodiment 130 is assembled with a chain link andbracket attachment in a manner similar to embodiment 110 as is shown inFIG. 18.

In each of the embodiments 10, 40, 50, 60, 70, 90, 100, 110 and 130described above, at least one of the chain pads is formed integrallywith and bent from the metal of the stamped bracket and is reinforced bya reinforcing portion or member also bent from the sheet metal of thebracket. At least a major portion of the length of such a chain pad issupported by the reinforcing member or portion to resist or preventbending of the pad when under load, regardless of whether the pad isformed from the planar bracket portion or the marginal side edge flangesof the bracket. The improved bracket is substantially more economicaland yet stronger than prior known brackets because it can be stampedfrom sheet metal and progressively formed with metal forming dies andyet be hardened by heat treating after formation.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED METHOD

Referring now to FIGS. 22 and 23, the preferred method for forming thestamped trolley bracket of embodiment 10 of FIGS. 1-4 begins with thestamping from a planar sheet 140 of steel or a length of coiled sheetsteel of a pattern or outline which will provide all the various areasand portions included in the stamped bracket. These include first orupper end 24, second or lower end 30, connecting portion 28, marginalside edge flanges 31, chain pads 32a-32d, reinforcing members 34a-34dand apertures 26, 36 and 38. The entire outer periphery 142 of thebracket is stamped simultaneously from the sheet metal 140 in thedesired pattern as shown in FIG. 22. During such stamping, the angularshape of the bracket may be simultaneously formed such that upper andlower portions 24, 30 are generally parallel to one another andconnected by portion 28 extending at an angle thereto, marginal edgeflanges 31 may be bent upright, apertures 26, 36, 38 may be stamped,punched or lanced in their respective positions, and chain pads 32a-32dmay be lanced and bent upright from the planar bracket portion 30 (FIG.23). Although these operations are preferably performed simultaneouslyresulting in the partially formed bracket shown in FIG. 23, they mayalso be done progressively and consecutively in progressive dies afterthe initial pattern outline is stamped from the sheet metal.

If the chain pads are formed simultaneously with the initial stamping ofthe pattern and marginal edge flanges 31 (as shown in FIG. 23), the nextstep is to bend the reinforcing members 34a-34d inwardly using formingdies such that the recesses 35 abut the rear surfaces of each of thechain pads 32. Alternately, reinforcing members 34 could be formed atright angles to marginal edge flanges 31 initially followed by lancingand bending of chain pads 32 upwardly into engagement with the recesses35 from the rear side of the bracket opposite the reinforcing membersusing appropriate dies, lances or the like. Thus, in embodiment 10,either the chain pads or reinforcing members or portions are formedfirst, followed by bending and formation of the other of those twoparts. With appropriate dies forming of the pads and reinforcingportions can also be performed simultaneously as mentioned above. Thisalso applies to bracket embodiments 60, 70, 90 and 100.

However, the method for embodiments 40 and 50 is slightly different inthat the pattern must be predetermined such that the chain pad portionor flanges 42, 52 will extend from the outer edge of reinforcing members44, 54. In embodiment 40, chain pads 42 may first be bent upwardly outof the plane of the sheet metal pattern, while the rest of the patternremains in its planar orientation followed by stamping of the marginaledge flanges and reinforcing members to an upright position in themanner shown in FIG. 23. Thereafter, further bending of the reinforcingmembers brings chain pads 42 downwardly into engagement with thebracket. Alternately, chain pads 42 can be bent at right angles to thereinforcing portion after the marginal edge flanges 31 and reinforcingmembers 44 are stamped to their upstanding positions similar in themanner shown in FIG. 23.

With respect to embodiment 50, the process is similar to that forembodiment 40 with the exception of the additional bending step forflanges 56 sometime prior to final bending of the reinforcing members 54to their positions parallel with bracket portion 30.

In embodiment 60, chain pads 62 must be separately folded inwardly priorto, after, or simultaneously with the folding of the reinforcingportions 64 inwardly toward the center of the bracket. Preferably, pads62 are bent or folded inwardly prior to bending reinforcing members 64inwardly.

In embodiments 90 and 100, either the chain pads 93, 104 or thereinforcing members 94, 102 can be formed first. Simultaneous bending ofthe pads and reinforcing members can also be accomplished withappropriate dies. Preferably, reinforcing members 94, 102 are bentupwardly from the middle portion of the bracket with flange 94 requiringone additional step of doubling over or bending toward the chain pad 93.Flange 102 is merely offset from its generally planar position withrespect to the remainder of the bracket portion 101.

With embodiments 110 and 130, formation of ribs 116, 118 and 116', 118'is preferably accomplished in a single stamping step along withformation of the remainder of the bracket portions. The metal dies usedfor these brackets will include upstanding flanges whose exterior shapecorresponds to a U or V depending on which type of rib will be formed.The ribs will thus be formed simultaneously with formation by stampingof the upper end, connecting portion and marginal side edge flanges ofthe bracket along with the punching of the securing apertures in theupper and lower bracket end portions.

Preferably, sheet steel is used for the brackets and bracket attachmentsof this invention. One type found useful is low carbon 1010 steel. Afterstamping and bending, the formed brackets and bracket attachments can besurface hardened by carbarizing which includes heating them toapproximately 1500° to 1550° F. in a furnace while inducing carbon intothe furnace atmosphere. The carbon enters the metal surfaces for greaterhardness. Alternately, higher carbon 1035 steel can be stamped and bentand thereafter surface hardened by heating to approximately 1500° to1550° F. followed by quenching in an ambient temperature oil bath.Although the above surface hardening steps could also be performed onprior know forged brackets, it was more difficult and expensive to do sothan with the present stamped brackets because of the surfaceconfiguration of the forged parts. In addition, the present bracket andmethod enable much easier use of and formation from stainless steel orother alloy materials which are difficult to forge or cast.

Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved trolley bracketand method for making the same which provides a stronger, yet moreeconomical bracket than has previously been available. This bracket ismanufactured with metal stamping and bending methods and provides chainsupports which are as strong or stronger than any bracket knownpreviously.

While several forms of the invention have been shown and described,other forms will now be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore,it will be understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings anddescribed above are merely for illustrative purposes, and are notintended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined by theclaims which follow.

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property orprivilege is claimed are defined as follows:
 1. In a trolley bracketadapted for use with overhead conveyors, the trolley bracket beingelongated and including a first end portion having means for supportinga trolley wheel thereon, a second end portion having a chain support forsupporting the link of a conveyor chain for moving said bracket along asupport when a trolley wheel is attached, and a connecting portionconnecting said first and second end portions, said second end portionincluding means for securing said bracket to a bracket attachment oranother of said brackets, the improvement comprising:said trolleybracket being stamped in one piece from sheet metal; said chain supportincluding chain pad means having portions for supporting at least twospaced portions of a chain link when such a chain link is mountedthereon, said portions of said chain pad means being spaced transverseto the direction of elongation of said bracket, said chain pad meansbeing bent from said bracket sheet metal, having at least one chain linkengaging surface thereon, and having a thickness less than the lengthmeasured transverse to said elongation of said bracket; reinforcingmeans formed in one piece with and bent from said bracket sheet metaland extending at an angle to said chain pad means such that saidreinforcing means extend generally in a plane other than parallel tosaid chain pad means and support said chain pad opposite to said linkengaging surface of said chain pad means for resisting bending of saidchain pad means when under load.
 2. The improved trolley bracket ofclaim 1 wherein said chain pad means includes at least one chain pad;said reinforcing means extend along and support at least a major portionof the length of said chain pad.
 3. The improved trolley bracket ofclaim 2 wherein said bracket is generally planar at the location of saidchain pad, said reinforcing means extending generally parallel to saidbracket at said location and supporting an area of said chain pad. 4.The improved trolley bracket of claim 3 wherein said bracket includesupstanding marginal edge flanges extending generally perpendicularly tosaid planar bracket portion and along portions of its side edgesadjacent said chain pad; said reinforcing means including an extendingreinforcing portion of one of said marginal edge flanges formed in onepiece therewith and bent inwardly toward the center of said bracket. 5.The improved trolley bracket of claim 4 wherein said chain pad extendsgenerally perpendicularly to said planar bracket portion at a positionintermediate said marginal edge flanges; said marginal edge flangesending adjacent said chain pad to provide a space for receiving a chainlink; said reinforcing portion having an edge comprising a thickness ofsaid sheet metal which abuts said chain pad.
 6. The improved trolleybracket of claim 5 wherein said chain pad has a chain link-engagingsurface which is flush with an edge of said marginal edge flange; saidreinforcing portion abutting a surface of said chain pad in oppositionto said chain link-engaging surface.
 7. The improved trolley bracket ofclaim 5 including a second chain pad and reinforcing portion spaced fromsaid one chain pad in the direction of elongation of said bracket, saidtwo chain pads having chain link-engaging surfaces facing one anotherand defining a chain link-receiving slot therebetween.
 8. In a trolleybracket adapted for use with overhead conveyors, the trolley bracketbeing elongated and including a first end portion having means forsupporting a trolley wheel thereon, a second end portion having a chainsupport for supporting the link of a conveyor chain for moving saidbracket along a support when a trolley wheel is attached, and aconnecting portion connecting said first and second end portions, saidsecond end portion including means for securing said bracket to abracket attachment or another of said brackets, the improvementcomprising:said trolley bracket being stamped in one piece from sheetmetal; said chain support including at least one chain pad extendingtransverse to the direction of elongation of said bracket for supportinga chain link when mounted thereon, said chain pad being bent from saidbracket sheet metal and having a thickness less than its length measuredtransverse to said elongation of said bracket; reinforcing means formedin one piece with and bent from said bracket sheet metal for supportingsaid chain pad for resisting bending of said chain pad when under load;said reinforcing means extending along and supporting at least a majorportion of the length of said chain pad; said bracket being generallyplanar at the location of said chain pad, said reinforcing meansextending generally parallel to said bracket at said location andsupporting an area of said chain pad; said bracket including upstandingmarginal edge flanges extending generally perpendicularly to said planarbracket portion and along portions of its side edges adjacent said chainpad; said reinforcing means including an extending reinforcing portionof one of said marginal edge flanges formed in one piece therewith andbent inwardly toward the center of said bracket; said chain pad being aflange on said extending reinforcing portion of said marginal edgeflange, said flange extending generally at right angles to saidextending reinforcing portion of said marginal edge flange.
 9. Theimproved trolley bracket of claim 8 wherein said flange forming saidchain pad includes an additional flange extending parallel to saidextending reinforcing portion and at a right angle to the remainder ofsaid flange forming said chain pad.
 10. In a trolley bracket adapted foruse with overhead conveyors, the trolley bracket being elongated andincluding a first end portion having means for supporting a trolleywheel thereon, a second end portion having a chain support forsupporting the link of a conveyor chain for moving said bracket along asupport when a trolley wheel is attached, and a connecting portionconnecting said first and second end portions, said second end portionincluding means for securing said bracket to a bracket attachment oranother of said brackets, the improvement comprising:said trolleybracket being stamped in one piece from sheet metal; said chain supportincluding at least one chain pad extending transverse to the directionof elongation of said bracket for supporting a chain link when mountedthereon, said chain pad being bent from said bracket sheet metal andhaving a thickness less than its length measured transverse to saidelongation of said bracket; reinforcing means formed in one piece withand bent from said bracket sheet metal for supporting said chain pad forresisting bending of said chain pad when under load; said reinforcingmeans extending along and supporting at least a major portion of thelength of said chain pad; said bracket being generally planar at thelocation of said chain pad, said reinforcing means extending generallyparallel to said bracket at said location and supporting an area of saidchain pad; said bracket including upstanding marginal edge flangesextending generally perpendicularly to said planar bracket portion andalong portions of its side edges adjacent said chain pad; saidreinforcing means including an extending reinforcing portion of one ofsaid marginal edge flanges formed in one piece therewith and bentinwardly toward the center of said bracket; said chain pad being a firstflange extending from said marginal edge flange; said extendingreinforcing portion being a second flange on said marginal edge flangeseparate from but abutting said first flange.
 11. In a trolley bracketadapted for use with overhead conveyors, the trolley bracket beingelongated and including a first end portion having means for supportinga trolley wheel thereon, a second end portion having a chain support forsupporting the link of a conveyor chain for moving said bracket along asupport when a trolley wheel is attached, and a connecting portionconnecting said first and second end portions, said second end portionincluding means for securing said bracket to a bracket attachment oranother of said brackets, the improvement comprising:said trolleybracket being stamped in one piece from sheet metal; said chain supportincluding at least one chain pad extending transverse to the directionof elongation of said bracket for supporting a chain link when mountedthereon, said chain pad being bent from said bracket sheet metal andhaving a thickness less than its length measured transverse to saidelongation of said bracket; reinforcing means formed in one piece withand bent from said bracket sheet metal for supporting said chain pad forresisting bending of said chain pad when under load; said chain padextending generally perpendicularly to said planar bracket portion, saidreinforcing means including a flange separate from said chain pad,extending from said planar bracket portion and having an edge abuttingsaid chain pad.
 12. The improved trolley bracket of claim 11 whereinsaid curved flange is curved and has a C-shaped cross sectional shape.13. The improved trolley bracket of claim 11 wherein said bracketincludes upstanding marginal flanges extending along portions of itsside edges adjacent said chain pad; said chain pad and curved flangeextending substantially entirely across said bracket intermediate saidmarginal edge flanges.
 14. The improved trolley bracket of claim 11including a bracket attachment having at least one shoulder extendinggenerally parallel to and spaced from said chain pad and defining achain link support channel between said chain pad and shoulder, saidmeans on said second end portion for securing said bracket to a bracketattachment including an aperture; said attachment bracket including atleast one aperture therethrough adapted to be aligned with said aperturein said second bracket end portion for receiving fastening means forsecuring said bracket and bracket attachment together.
 15. In a trolleybracket adapted for use with overhead conveyors, the trolley bracketbeing elongated and including a first end portion having means forsupporting a trolley wheel thereon, a second end portion having a chainsupport for supporting the link of a conveyor chain for moving saidbracket along a support when a trolley wheel is attached, and aconnecting portion connecting said first and second end portions, saidsecond end portion including means for securing said bracket to abracket attachment or another of said brackets, the improvementcomprising:said trolley bracket being stamped in one piece from sheetmetal; said chain support including chain pad means having portions forsupporting at least two spaced portions of a chain link when such achain link is mounted thereon, said portions of said chain pad meansbeing spaced transverse to the direction of elongation of said bracket,said chain pad means being bent from said bracket sheet metal, having atleast one chain link engaging surface thereon, and having a thicknessless than the length measured transverse to said elongation of saidbracket; reinforcing means formed in one piece with and bent from saidbracket sheet metal and supporting said chain pad opposite to said linkengaging surface of said chain pad means for resisting bending of saidchain pad means when under load; said chain pad means including a spacedpair of chain pads aligned with one another transversely across saidbracket; said reinforcing means including a reinforcing flange for eachof said chain pads.
 16. The improved trolley bracket of claim 15including a second pair of said chain pads aligned with one anothertransversely across said bracket, said second pair of chain pads beingspaced from said first pads and forming a chain link-receiving slottherebetween.
 17. The improved trolley bracket of claim 16 wherein eachof said reinforcing flanges is bent from an extending portion of amarginal edge flange extending along the side edges of said bracketadjacent said chain pads.
 18. The improved trolley bracket of claim 15including a bracket attachment having at least one shoulder extendinggenerally parallel to and spaced from said chain pads and defining achain link support channel between said chain pads and shoulder, saidattachment bracket including at least one aperture therethrough adaptedto be aligned with said aperture in said second bracket end portion forreceiving fastening means for securing said bracket and bracketattachment together.
 19. In a trolley bracket adapted for use withoverhead conveyors, the trolley bracket being elongated and including afirst end portion having means for supporting a trolley wheel thereon, asecond end portion having a chain support for supporting the link of aconveyor chain for moving said bracket along a support when a trolleywheel is attached, and a connecting portion connecting said first andsecond end portions, said second end portion having means for securingsaid bracket to a bracket attachment or another of said brackets, theimprovement comprising:said trolley bracket being stamped in one piecefrom sheet metal, said second end portion having a generally planarportion intermediate its side edges, said chain support including chainpad means having portions for supporting at least two spaced portions ofa chain link when such a chain link is mounted thereon, at least onechain link support surface, said chain pad means being in one piece withand bent from said sheet metal of said bracket and extending outwardlyof said planar intermediate portion with said one surface beinggenerally perpendicular to said planar portion, the thickness of saidchain pad means being less than the length across said bracket, saidportions of said chain pad means being spaced transverse to thedirection of elongation of said bracket; reinforcing means formed in onepiece with and bent from said bracket sheet metal, being opposite tosaid link engaging surface of said chain pad means, and extending at anangle to said chain pad means such that said reinforcing means extendgenerally in a plane other than parallel to said chain pad means and ina direction away from said one surface of said chain pad means and alongat least a major portion of said length of said chain pad means forresisting bending of said chain pad means when under load.
 20. Theimproved trolley bracket of claim 19 wherein said chain pad meansincludes at least one chain pad; said second end portion being planarand including a second of said chain pads spaced from said one chain padin the direction of elongation of said bracket to provide a chain linkreceiving area; second reinforcing means like the first of saidreinforcing means for supporting said second chain pad and preventingits bending under load; each of said chain pads and respectivereinforcing means being a continuous chain support rib stamped out ofthe plane of said second bracket end portion and including a chainengaging leg extending continuously from the sheet metal of said secondend portion and a reinforcing leg extending continuously from the sheetmetal of said second end portion and integral, continuous with andjoining said chain engaging leg at a position spaced from the plane ofsaid second bracket end portion.
 21. The improved trolley bracket ofclaim 20 wherein each of said ribs extend across the entire width ofsaid second bracket end portion; each of said reinforcing legs beinggenerally L-shaped in cross-section and including a portion parallel tosaid planar second bracket end portion which merges with said chainengaging leg at said spaced position.
 22. The improved trolley bracketof claim 20 wherein each of said ribs extends across the entire width ofsaid second bracket end portion; each of said reinforcing legs extendingat an inclined angle between said planar second bracket end portion andsaid spaced position.
 23. In a bracket for attachment to a chain, thebracket including engaging means for engagement with a link of aconveyor chain to move said bracket with said conveyor chain, theimprovement comprising:said bracket being stamped in one piece fromsheet metal; said engaging means including chain pad means for engaginga chain link to secure the link to said bracket, said chain pad meanshaving at least one chain link engaging surface and portions forsupporting at least two spaced portions of a chain link when such achain link is mounted thereon, said portions of said chain pad meansbeing spaced in a direction across said bracket, said chain pad meansbeing bent from said bracket sheet metal and having a thickness lessthan the length, said length being measured in a direction across saidbracket; reinforcing means formed in one piece with and bent from saidbracket sheet metal and extending at an angle to said chain pad meanssuch that said reinforcing means extend generally in a plane other thanparallel to said chain pad means and support said chain pad meansopposite to said chain link engaging surface of said chain pad means forresisting bending of said chain pad means when under load.
 24. Theimproved bracket of claim 23 wherein said chain pad means includes achain pad; said bracket includes upstanding marginal flanges extendinggenerally perpendicularly to a planar portion of said bracket and alongportions of its side edges adjacent said chain pad; said reinforcingmeans including an extending reinforcing portion of one of said marginaledge flanges formed in one piece therewith and bent inwardly toward thecenter of said bracket.
 25. In a bracket for attachment to a chain, thebracket including engaging means for engagement with a link of aconveyor chain to move said bracket with said conveyor chain theimprovement comprising:said bracket being stamped in one piece fromsheet metal; said engaging means including chain pad means for engaginga chain link to secure the link to said bracket, said chain pad meanshaving at least one chain link engaging surface and portions forsupporting at least two spaced portions of a chain link when such achain link is mounted thereon, said portions of said chain pad meansbeing spaced in a direction across said bracket, said chain pad meansbeing bent from said bracket sheet metal and having a thickness lessthan the length, said length being measured in a direction across saidbracket; reinforcing means formed in one piece with and bent from saidbracket sheet metal and supporting said chain pad opposite to said chainlink engaging surface of said chain pad means for resisting bending ofsaid chain pad means when under load; said chain pad means including aspaced pair of chain pads aligned with one another transversely acrosssaid bracket; said reinforcing means including a reinforcing flange foreach of said chain pads.
 26. The improved bracket of claim 25 includinga second pair of said chain pads aligned with one another transverselyacross said bracket, said second pair of chain pads being spaced fromsaid first pads and forming a chain link receiving slot therebetween;said reinforcing means also including a reinforcing flange for each ofsaid second pair of chain pads.
 27. The improved bracket of claim 26wherein each of said reinforcing flanges is bent from an extendingportion of a marginal edge flange extending from a side edge of saidbracket adjacent each of said chain pads.
 28. The improved bracket ofclaim 25 including a bracket attachment havng at least one shoulderextending generally parallel to and spaced from said chain pads anddefining a chain link support channel between said chain pads andshoulder, said attachment bracket including at least one aperturetherethrough; said means for securing a suspended object including anaperture through said bracket; said aperture through said attachmentbracket adapted to be aligned with said aperture in said bracket forreceiving fastening means for securing said bracket and bracketattachment together.
 29. In a bracket for attachment to a chain, thebracket including engaging means for engagement with a link of aconveyor chain to move said bracket with said conveyor chain theimprovement comprising:said bracket being stamped in one piece fromsheet metal; said engaging means including at least one chain padextending in a direction across said bracket for engaging a chain linkto secure the link to said bracket, said chain pad being bent from saidbracket sheet metal and having a thickness less than its length, saidlength being measured in a direction across said bracket; reinforcingmeans formed in one piece with and bent from said bracket sheet metalfor supporting said chain pad for resisting bending of chain pad whenunder load; said bracket including upstanding marginal edge flangesextending generally perpendicularly to a planar portion of said bracketand along portions of its side edges adjacent said chain pad; saidreinforcing means including an extending reinforcing portion of one ofsaid marginal edge flanges formed in one piece therewith and bentupwardly toward the center of said bracket; said chain pad being aflange on said extending reinforcing portion of said marginal edgeflange, said flange extending generally at right angles to saidextending reinforcing portion of said marginal edge flange and abuttingand engaging said planar bracket portion.
 30. In a bracket forattachment to a chain, the bracket including engaging means forengagement with a link of a conveyor chain to move said bracket withsaid conveyor chain the improvement comprising:said bracket beingstamped in one piece from sheet metal; said engaging means including atleast one chain pad extending in a direction across said bracket forengaging a chain link to secure the link to said bracket, said chain padbeing bent from said bracket sheet metal and having a thickness lessthan its length, said length being measured in a direction across saidbracket, reinforcing means formed in one piece with and bent from saidbracket sheet metal for supporting said chain pad for resisting bendingof said chain pad when under load; said bracket including upstandingmarginal edge flanges extending generally perpendicularly to a planarportion of said bracket and along portions of its side edges adjacentsaid chain pad; said reinforcing means including an extendingreinforcing portion of one of said marginal edge flanges formed in onepiece therewith and bent inwardly toward the center of said bracket;said chain pad being a first flange extending from said marginal edgeportion; said extending reinforcing portion being a second flange onsaid marginal edge flange separate from but abutting said first flange.31. In a bracket for attachment to a chain, the bracket includingengaging means for engagement with a link of a conveyor chain to movesaid bracket with said conveyor chain the improvement comprising:saidbracket being stamped in one piece from sheet metal; said engaging meansincluding chain pad means for engaging a chain link to secure the linkto said bracket, said chain pad means having at least one chain linkengaging surface and portions for supporting at least two spacedportions of a chain link when such a chain link is mounted thereon, saidportions of said chain pad means being spaced in a direction across saidbracket, said chain pad means being bent from said bracket sheet metaland having a thickness less than the length, said length being measuredin a direction across said bracket; reinforcing means formed in onepiece with and bent from said bracket sheet metal and supporting saidchain pad opposite to said chain link engaging surface of said chain padmeans for resisting bending of said chain pad means when under load;said chain pad means including a chain pad extending generallyperpendicularly to a planar portion of said bracket, said reinforcingmeans including a flange separate from said chain pad and having an edgeabutting said chain pad.
 32. In the combination of a bracket forattachment to a chain and engaging means for engagement with a link of aconveyor chain to move said bracket with said conveyor chain, theimprovement comprising:said bracket being stamped in one piece fromsheet metal; said engaging means including chain pad means formed fromsheet metal material for engaging a chain link to secure the link tosaid bracket and having chain link engaging surface portions spaced in adirection across said bracket for supporting at least two spacedportions of a chain link when such a chain link is mounted thereon;reinforcing means formed from sheet metal material for supporting saidchain pad means opposite to said chain link engaging surface of saidchain pad means, said reinforcing means extending at an angle to saidchain pad means such that said reinforcing means extend generally in aplane other than parallel to said chain pad means to resist bending ofsaid chain pad means when under load.
 33. The improved bracket of claim32 wherein said chain pad means includes a chain pad extending generallyperpendicularly to a portion of said bracket, said reinforcing meansincluding a flange separate from said chain pad and having an edgeabutting said chain pad.
 34. The improved bracket of claim 32 whereinsaid portions of said chain pad means are spaced portions of one chainpad.
 35. The improved bracket of claim 32 wherein said portions of saidchain pad means include a portion on each of at least two spaced chainpads.
 36. In a trolley bracket adapted for use with overhead conveyors,the trolley bracket being elongated and including a first end portionhaving means for supporting a trolley wheel thereon, a second endportion having a chain support for supporting the link of a conveyorchain for moving said bracket along a support when a trolley wheel isattached, and a connecting portion connecting said first and second endportions, said second end portion including means for securing saidbracket to a bracket attachment or another of said brackets, theimprovement comprising:said trolley bracket being stamped in one piecefrom sheet metal; said chain support including chain pad means havingportions for supporting at least two spaced portions of a chain linkwhen such a chain link is mounted thereon, said portions of chain padmeans being spaced transverse to the direction of elongation of saidbracket, said chain pad means being bent from said bracket sheet metal,having at least one chain link engaging surface thereon, and having athickness less than the length measured transverse to said elongation ofsaid bracket; reinforcing means formed in one piece with and bent fromsaid bracket sheet metal and supporting said chain pad opposite to saidlink engaging surface of said chain pad means for resisting bending ofsaid chain pad means for resisting bending of said chain pad means whenunder load; said reinforcing means which are bent from said bracketsheet metal including a bend in said bracket sheet metal extendinggenerally perpendicularly to said chain link engaging surface of saidchain pad means.
 37. In a bracket for attachment to a chain, the bracketincluding engaging means for engagement with a link of a conveyor chainto move said bracket with said conveyor chain, the improvementcomprising:said bracket being stamped in one piece from sheet metal;said engaging means including chain pad means for engaging a chain linkto secure the link to said bracket, said chain pad means having at leastone chain link engaging surface and portions for supporting at least twospaced portions of a chain link when such a chain link is mountedthereon, said portions of said chain pad means being spaced in adirection across said bracket, said chain pad means being bent from saidbracket sheet metal and having a thickness less than the length, saidlength being measured in a direction across said bracket; reinforcingmeans formed in one piece with and bent from said bracket sheet metaland supporting said chain pad opposite to said chain link engagingsurface of said chain pad means for resisting bending of said chain padmeans when under load; said reinforcing means which are bent from saidbracket sheet metal including a bend in said bracket sheet metalextending generally perpendicularly to said chain link engaging surfaceof said chain pad means.